Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving continuous enteral feedings through a nasogastric tube. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

• A. Elevate the head of the bed to 30°
• B. Flush the tube with 50 mL of water every 2 hours
• C. Replace the feeding bag and tubing every 72 hours
• D. Check the client's gastric residual every 8 hours

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed to 30° is the correct action to take when a client is receiving continuous enteral feedings through a nasogastric tube. This position helps prevent aspiration of the enteral feedings into the lungs, reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Additionally, elevating the head of the bed promotes proper digestion and absorption of the feedings by utilizing gravity to facilitate movement into the stomach and through the gastrointestinal tract. Flushing the tube with water every 2 hours (Choice B) is not necessary for continuous feedings and may disrupt the feeding schedule. Replacing the feeding bag and tubing every 72 hours (Choice C) is not the standard recommendation unless there are specific concerns or complications. Checking the client's gastric residual every 8 hours (Choice D) is important but not the immediate action needed to prevent aspiration during enteral feedings.

2. During discharge instructions, a client with a new prescription for a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) states, 'I will shake the inhaler before each use.' Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will shake the inhaler before each use.
• B. I will use the inhaler immediately after meals.
• C. I will inhale the medication quickly.
• D. I will clean the mouthpiece with alcohol.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because shaking the inhaler before each use ensures that the medication is properly mixed, which is essential for effective administration. This action helps to disperse the medication evenly, enhancing its efficacy when inhaled. Proper mixing through shaking prevents inconsistent dosing and ensures that the client receives the correct amount of medication with each use.

3. When admitting a client at risk for falls in a long-term care facility, what should the nurse do first?

• A. Complete a fall-risk assessment
• B. Place a fall-risk identification bracelet on the client
• C. Provide the client with nonskid footwear
• D. Set the bed to the lowest position

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The initial step in caring for a client at risk for falls is to conduct a fall-risk assessment. This assessment helps the nurse gather crucial data to identify specific risks and individualized needs, guiding subsequent interventions and preventive measures. By completing a thorough assessment, the nurse can develop a targeted plan of care to mitigate fall risk and ensure the client's safety. Placing a fall-risk identification bracelet, providing nonskid footwear, or setting the bed to the lowest position may be important interventions, but these actions should be based on the findings of the fall-risk assessment, making choice A the priority.

4. A client with dysphagia and at risk for aspiration needs care planning. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Encourage the client to drink thickened liquids.
• B. Instruct the client to swallow with chin tucked.
• C. Provide the client with a cup with a lid.
• D. Place the client in Fowler's position for meals.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Placing the client in Fowler's position is crucial in preventing aspiration as it helps maintain an open airway and reduces the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs during swallowing. This position promotes safer swallowing and minimizes the chances of aspiration pneumonia. Choices A, B, and C are less effective interventions for preventing aspiration. Encouraging the client to drink thickened liquids may help, but the position is more critical. Instructing the client to swallow with chin tucked is beneficial for some individuals but not as effective as positioning. Providing a cup with a lid does not directly address the risk of aspiration associated with dysphagia.

5. A client with a seizure disorder is under the care of a nurse. Which of the following precautions should the nurse include in the plan?

• A. Place a padded tongue depressor at the bedside.
• B. Keep the bed in the lowest position.
• C. Restrain the client during a seizure.
• D. Keep the lights dim in the client's room.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Keeping the bed in the lowest position is crucial for ensuring the safety of the client during a seizure. Lowering the bed reduces the risk of injury if the client falls during a seizure episode. It is important not to restrain the client during a seizure as it can lead to further injury. Placing a padded tongue depressor at the bedside is not appropriate and can pose a risk of injury if used incorrectly. Keeping the lights dim in the client's room is not directly related to safety during a seizure and is not a standard precaution.

Similar Questions